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16 comments

Do you want flattened vector output? If so, I’m not sure what does that. Illustrator has some very basic extruding and revolving that can product 2D vectors, but I typically use Cheetah 3D for illustrations that need realistic form and shading.

Blender is a bit more complex but allows you to do amazing things once you learn. I don't have experience with blender, but a coworker recommended Blender Guru. It looks like he has a beginner course to introduce Blender and 3D modeling in addition to his advanced rendering techniques.

If you want to get nice clean vector line output, I'd recommend Rhinoceros. They have a command called "make2d" which does as it sounds, turns a 3d object into a flattened 2D vector. My favorite part of that feature is it also creates "hidden lines" and puts them on a separate layer so when you import into illustrator you can dash them or color them differently.

Finally, if you're just looking for more precision and want vector output (and don't want to spend much cash), I'd say stick with Sketchup. You can export as a .dxf file and import into Illustrator with no problems.

This really depends on what you intend on using it for specifically. Strata Design 3D is a accessible 3D modeled/animator used by many illustrators. Form Z is a good option if you like Sketchup's approach to 3D modeling but want more power and control of your 3D models and rendering. Cinema 4D is an excellent option (albeit expensive) that is used primarily by motion graphics users but can be used by illustrators as well. What it ultimately comes down to is your comfort level working with 3D models. Some tools make it easier (Form Z and Sketchup) to model to exact sizes and proportions while others make it easier to simply create 3D geometry for general purpose use (Strata 3D and Cinema 4D).